These resources will provide you with a structured introduction to the vast array of information that is available on the Internet.
Search Engines Web Directories "Deep Web" Gateways
Searching Tips More Search Help
Last modified May 15, 2003

Search Engines
Use search engines to research very specific topics. Type in as many keywords as possible to describe the topic you are searching. For more information about the following search engines, refer to these websites.
AllTheWeb Excite Hot Bot Overture
Alta Vista Go Network Lycos Teoma
Ask Jeeves Google! ZenSearch
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Web Directories
Use web directories to browse very broad topics ("job search", travel, scholarships). "Click" through category links that will lead you to a list of websites that pertain specifically to your subject of interest. Web directories can be satisfying alternatives to search engines that may return an overwhelming number of websites about broad topics.
About.com Librarians' Index to the Internet WebBound
Digital Librarian LookSmart Yahoo!
JoeAnt Open Directory Project
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Deep Web Gateways
The "Deep Web" is a large bank of specialized databases that are not often indexed by popular search engines and directories like Google, Yahoo!, and AltaVista. The content of these databases is typically produced by reputable organizations (medical, educational, military, government, etc.). Each query produces a "fresh" set of documents and high-quality information. Some databases may require a subscription or fee to access their contents. The "Deep Web" is accessible through the following "gateways".
Complete Planet Invisible Web ProFusion
Infomine Invisible Web Directory Resource Discovery Network
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Searching Tips

  • Start specific in your search. Use several keywords to narrow your search results. If you get too few results, then broaden your search by removing words.

  • Use quotation marks (") to find exact phrases or multi-word titles.
    Example: Typing "Princess Diana" will tell the search engine to always look for those words, next to each other, in that exact order, rather than individually.

  • Type a plus sign (+) to the left of each word that you want to appear in every website that the search engine finds.

  • Type a minus sign (-) to the left of each word that you want to exclude from your search.

  • In their advanced features, search engines enable you to use Boolean operators (AND, OR, NOT) to establish specific relationships among your search words. If you use Boolean operators, always type them in capital letters.

  • Select one or two general search engines and become familiar with them. Each engine has its own capabilities and idiosyncrasies.

  • Consult the Help sections of search engines, web directories, and websites for specific search tips.

  • Use these search tips in conjunction with each other for optimal search results.
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More Search Help

Kansas City Public Library - Search Engine Comparison Chart This is a great comparison chart of search engines and their special features.
Search Engine Watch A look at the most prominent search engines and directories, plus articles and statistics. You can even subscribe to the Search Engine Watch newsletter.
The Spider's Apprentice Good information about learning how to make your searches more efficient.
University of California, Berkeley Library - Recommended Search Engines This is a detailed guide to recommended search engines, web directories, the "deep web", and metasearch engines. Links to detailed tutorials are also featured.
Search Engine Showdown This user guide compares and evaluates search engines and directories from the searcher's perspective. It includes features comparison charts, reviews, and statistics.
AllSearchEngines.com This is a huge directory of general and subject-specific search engines and web directories. Each search engine or directory is listed with a brief rating, description of its contents, and link to its main search page.

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